DE102017122311A1 - VEHICLE LIGHTING SYSTEM - Google Patents

Abstract

A vehicle is provided that includes a first panel defining a vent opening and a second panel disposed proximate the first panel. A lighting assembly is disposed in the vent and includes a first plurality and a second plurality of light sources. A heat sink is heat coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources. An optical element is optically coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on the second panel.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to vehicle lighting systems, and more particularly to vehicle lighting systems using photoluminescent structures.

GENERAL PRIOR ART

Lighting resulting from photoluminescent materials provides a unique and attractive viewing experience. For this reason, it is desirable to incorporate such photoluminescent materials into sections of vehicles to provide accent lighting.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

According to one aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided that includes a first trim defining a vent opening and a second trim disposed proximate the first trim. A lighting assembly is disposed in the vent and includes a first plurality and a second plurality of light sources. A heat sink is heat coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources. An optical element is optically coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on the second panel.

In accordance with another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle is provided that includes a first panel defining a vent opening and a second panel disposed proximate the vent opening. A lighting assembly is disposed in the vent and includes a first plurality and a second plurality of light sources. An optical element is optically coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources. A photoluminescent structure is disposed on the second panel.

In yet another aspect of the present disclosure, a vehicle includes a fender panel defining a vent and a wheel well. A lighting assembly is disposed in the vent and includes a plurality of light sources. An optical element is optically coupled to the plurality of light sources. A photoluminescent structure is disposed near the vent. The optical element is designed to emit light from the plurality of light sources to the wheel well and to the photoluminescent structure. These and other aspects, objects and features of the present invention will be understood and appreciated by those skilled in the art after reading the following specification, claims and appended drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

is 1A a side view of a photoluminescent structure, which is shown as a coating for use in a vehicle light strip according to an embodiment;

is 1B a plan view of a photoluminescent structure, which is represented according to an embodiment as a single particle;

is 1C Figure 12 is a side view of a plurality of photoluminescent structures represented as single particles and incorporated into a separate structure;

is 2 a side perspective view of a vehicle that is equipped with a lighting assembly according to an embodiment;

is 3 a perspective view of a panel and the lighting assembly of the vehicle according to an embodiment;

is 4 a cross-sectional view of the panel along the line IV 3 according to an embodiment;

is 5 an enlarged view as a section V of 4 according to an embodiment; and

is 6 a block diagram of the vehicle and the lighting system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

Detailed embodiments of the present disclosure are disclosed as needed in the present specification. It should be understood, however, that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the disclosure, which may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures do not necessarily correspond to a detailed embodiment, and some schemes may be enlarged or reduced in size to illustrate a functional overview. Therefore, concrete structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting, but merely as a representative basis to teach a person skilled in the art a versatile use of the present disclosure.

As used herein, the term "and / or," when used in an enumeration of two or more parts, means that each of the enumerated parts may be used individually or any combination of two or more of the enumerated parts may be used. For example, when a composition is described as containing components A, B and / or C, composition A may be alone; B alone; C alone; A and B in combination; A and C in combination; B and C in combination; or A, B and C are included in combination.

With reference to the 1A - 1C Be different embodiments of photoluminescent structures 10 shown, each to a substrate 12 can be coupled, which may correspond to a vehicle mount or a vehicle-related equipment part. In 1A becomes the photoluminescent structure 10 generally depicted as a coating (eg, as a film) applied to a surface of the substrate 12 can be applied. In 1B is the photoluminescent structure 10 represented generally as a single particle that is in a substrate 12 can be introduced. In 1C is the photoluminescent structure 10 generally depicted as a plurality of individual particles that are in a carrier medium 14 (eg, a film), which may then be applied (as shown) or into the substrate 12 can be integrated.

At the lowest level has a respective photoluminescent structure 10 an energy conversion layer 16 which may include one or more sublayers incorporated in the 1A and 1B exemplified by dashed lines. Each sub-layer of the energy conversion layer 16 may be one or more photoluminescent materials 18 containing energy conversion elements having phosphorescence or fluorescence properties. Any photoluminescent material 18 can by receiving an excitation emission 24 a specific wavelength, which causes the light to undergo a conversion process. According to the principle of down conversion, the excitation emission becomes 24 in converted light 26 converted to a longer wavelength, that of the photoluminescent structure 10 is issued. Conversely, the excitation emission 24 converted into a light having a shorter wavelength than that of the photoluminescent structure according to the principle of up-conversion 10 is issued. Be several different wavelengths of light simultaneously from the photoluminescent structure 10 output, so the light wavelengths can mix and be reproduced as multi-colored light.

Light that is emitted by a light source is here as an excitation emission 24 or excitation light and indicated by solid arrows. In contrast, light is produced by the photoluminescent structure 10 is given, here as a converted light 26 designated and shown by dashed arrows. The mixture of excitation emission 24 and converted light 26 which can be dispensed simultaneously is referred to herein as output light.

The energy conversion layer 16 can by dispersing the photoluminescent material 18 in a polymer matrix to form a homogeneous mixture using a variety of methods. Such methods may include producing the energy conversion layer 16 from a formulation in a liquid carrier medium 14 and coating the energy conversion layer 16 to a desired substrate 12 include. The energy conversion layer 16 can on the substrate 12 be applied by painting, screen printing, spraying, slot die coating, dip coating, roller coating and bar coating. Alternatively, the energy conversion layer 16 be prepared by processes in which no liquid carrier medium 14 is used. For example, the energy conversion layer 16 by dispersing the photoluminescent material 18 in a mixed crystal (homogeneous mixture in the dry state) which can be enclosed in a polymer matrix which can be formed by extrusion, injection molding, compression molding, calendering, thermoforming, etc. The energy conversion layer 16 can then be made into a substrate using any of the methods known to those skilled in the art 12 be introduced. When the energy conversion layer 16 Partial layers, each sub-layer can be successively coated to the energy conversion layer 16 train. Alternatively, the sub-layers may be prepared separately and later laminated together or embossed to form the energy conversion layer 16 train. Alternatively, the energy conversion layer 16 be formed by coextruding the partial layers.

In some embodiments, the converted light 26 , which has been down-converted or up-converted, to another photoluminescent material / photoluminescent materials 18 to stimulate the energy conversion layer 16 located or located. The process of using the converted light 26 that of one photoluminescent material 18 to stimulate another, and so on, is generally known as an energy cascade and may serve as an alternative to achieving different color expressions. With respect to each of the conversion principles, the wavelength difference between the excitation emission becomes 24 and the converted light 26 referred to as Stokes shift and serves as a basic drive mechanism for an energy conversion process that corresponds to a change in the wavelength of light. In the various embodiments discussed herein, any of the photoluminescent structures 10 to work according to each of the conversion principles.

Referring again to the 1A and 1B can the photoluminescent structure 10 optionally at least one stability layer 20 include the photoluminescent material 18 that in the energy conversion layer 16 contained to protect against photolytic and thermal degradation. The stability layer 20 may be designed as a separate layer with the energy conversion layer 16 is optically coupled and liable. Alternatively, the stability layer 20 into the energy conversion layer 16 be introduced. The photoluminescent structure 10 may further optionally a protective layer 22 Include those with the stability layer 20 or another layer (eg, the conversion layer 16 in the absence of the stability layer 20 ) is optically coupled and adhered to the photoluminescent structure 10 to protect against physical and chemical damage due to environmental exposure. The stability layer 20 and / or the protective layer 22 may be obtained by sequentially coating or printing each layer, sequentially laminating or embossing, or in any other suitable manner with the energy conversion layer 16 be combined.

Additional information regarding the structure of the photoluminescent structures 10 are in U.S. Patent No. 8,232,533 to Kingsley et al. entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION", the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference. For more information on the preparation and use of photoluminescent materials to achieve different light emissions, see U.S. Patent No. 8,207,511 to Bortz et al. entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT FIBERS, COMPOSITIONS AND FABRICS MADE THEREFROM"; U.S. Patent No. 8,247,761 to Agrawal et al. labeled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT MARKINGS WITH FUNCTIONAL OVERLAYERS"; U.S. Patent No. 8,519,359 to Kingsley et al. entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION"; U.S. Patent No. 8,664,624 to Kingsley et al. entitled "ILLUMINATION DELIVERY SYSTEM FOR GENERATING SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION"; U.S. Patent Publication No. 2012/0183677 to Agrawal et al. entitled "PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS, METHODS OF MANUFACTURE AND NOVEL USES"; U.S. Patent No. 9,057,021 to Kingsley et al. with the name "PHOTOLUMINESCENT OBJECTS"; and U.S. Patent Publication No. 2014/0103258 to Agrawal et al. entitled "CHROMIC LUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS AND TEXTILES", which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

According to one embodiment, the photoluminescent material 18 organic or inorganic fluorescent dyes, including rylenes, xanthenes, porphyrins and phthalocyanines. Additionally or alternatively, the photoluminescent material 18 Include phosphors from the group of Ce-doped garnets such as YAG: Ce, and it may be a photoluminescent material 18 be with a short persistence. An emission by Ce ³⁺ is based z. On an electronic energy transition from 5d1 to 4f1 as a parity-allowed transition. As a result, an energy difference between the light absorption and the light emission by Ce ^{3+ is} small, and the luminescence level of Ce ^{3+ has} an ultrashort life or decay time of 10 ^-8 to 10 ^-7 seconds (10 to 100 nanoseconds). The cooldown can be considered the time between the end of the excitation of the excitation emission 24 and the time at which the light intensity of the converted light 26 that of the photoluminescent structure 10 be defined below a minimum visibility of 0.32 mcd / m ² . Visibility of 0.32 mcd / m ² corresponds to approximately 100 times the sensitivity of the dark-adapted human eye, which corresponds to a level of basic illumination generally used by those of ordinary skill in the art.

According to one embodiment, a Ce ³⁺ garnet may be used which has a peak excitation spectrum which may be in a shorter wavelength range than that of conventional YAG: Ce phosphors. Accordingly, Ce ^{3+ has} a short persistence period so that its decay time can be 100 milliseconds or less. Thus, in some embodiments, the rare earth aluminum garnet of the Ce phosphor type may be used as the photoluminescent material 18 with ultrashort afterglow serve, which is the converted light 26 by absorbing purple to blue excitation emission 24 that from the light source 44 is emitted, can deliver. In one embodiment, a ZnS: Ag phosphor can be used to produce a blue converted light 26 to create. A ZnS: Cu phosphor can be used to produce a yellowish green converted light 26 to create. A Y ₂ O ₂ S: Eu phosphor can be used to produce a red converted light 26 to create. In addition, the aforementioned phosphorescent materials can be combined to form a wide range of colors, including white light. It will be understood that any well-known photoluminescent material with short persistence can be used without departing from the teachings provided herein. Additional information regarding the production of photoluminescent materials with short persistence is given in US Pat U.S. Patent No. 8,163,201 to Kingsley et al. entitled "PHOTOLYTICALLY AND ENVIRONMENTALLY STABLE MULTILAYER STRUCTURE FOR HIGH EFFICIENCY ELECTROMAGNETIC ENERGY CONVERSION AND SUSTAINED SECONDARY EMISSION", the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

Additionally or alternatively, in the photoluminescent structure 10 arranged photoluminescent material 18 according to one embodiment, a photoluminescent material with long persistence 18 comprising the converted light 26 emits as soon as it passes through the excitation light 24 was charged. The excitation emission 24 may be from any excitation source (eg, any natural light source such as the sun and / or any artificial light source 44 ). The photoluminescent material with long persistence 18 can be defined as being due to its ability to excite the emission 24 to save and the converted light 26 gradually deliver over a period of several minutes or hours as soon as the excitation light 24 is gone, has a long cooldown.

The photoluminescent material with long persistence 18 According to one embodiment, it may serve to emit light at or above an intensity of 0.32 mcd / m ² after a period of 10 minutes. In addition, the photoluminescent material with long persistence time 18 to serve light over a period of 30 minutes and in some embodiments for a period of substantially more than 60 minutes (eg, the period may be 24 hours or longer, and in some cases the period may be 48 hours) or with an intensity of 0.32 mcd / m ² . Accordingly, the photoluminescent material with long persistence time 18 in response to the excitation of any light sources, which the excitation emission 24 including, among other things, natural light sources (eg, the sun) and / or any artificial light source 44 , continuously lit. The regular absorption of the excitation emission 24 From any source of excitation may be a substantially sustainable charge of the photoluminescent material with a long persistence 18 provide a permanent indirect lighting. In some embodiments, a light sensor may measure the luminous intensity of the photoluminescent structure 10 and activate an excitation source when the luminous intensity drops below 0.32 mcd / m ² or any other predefined intensity level.

The photoluminescent material with long persistence 18 may alkaline earth aluminates and silicates, z. Doped disilicates, or any other compound capable of emitting light over a period of time as the excitation emission 24 no longer exists. The photoluminescent material with long persistence 18 may be doped with one or more ions, which may correspond to rare earth elements, for example Eu 2+, Tb 3+ and / or Dy 3+. By way of non-limiting example, the photoluminescent structure includes 10 a phosphorescent material in the range of about 30% to about 55%, a liquid carrier medium in the range of about 25% to about 55%, a polymer resin in the range of about 15% to about 35%, a stabilizing additive in the range of about 0, From 25% to about 20% and performance enhancing additives ranging from about 0% to about 5%, each based on the weight of the formulation.

The photoluminescent structure 10 According to one embodiment, when not illuminated, they may have a translucent white color and, in some cases, reflect. Once the photoluminescent structure 10 the excitation emission 24 has received a certain wavelength, the photoluminescent structure 10 Deliver light of any color (eg, blue or red) thereof in any desired brightness. In one embodiment, a blue phosphorescent material may have the structure Li ₂ ZnGeO ₄ and may be prepared by a high temperature solid state reaction method or by any other possible methods and / or processes. Afterglow can persist for a period of two to eight hours and from the excitation emission 24 and dd junctions of Mn ²⁺ ions.

According to an alternative non-limiting embodiment 100 Parts of a commercially available solvent-containing polyurethane, such as. Mace resin 107-268, with 50% solid polyurethane in toluene / isopropanol, 125 Parts of a blue-green phosphor with long persistence, such. For example, the performance indicator PI-BG20 and 12.5 parts of a dye solution containing 0.1% Lumogen Yellow F083 in dioxolane are mixed to form a photoluminescent structure 10 to obtain with low rare earth mineral content. It will be understood that the compositions provided herein are non-limiting examples. Thus, any art recognized phosphor in the photoluminescent structure 10 may be used without departing from the teachings provided herein. In addition, it is contemplated that any art-recognized phosphor with long persistence can be used without departing from the teachings provided herein.

Additional information regarding the production of photoluminescent materials with long persistence is given in US Pat U.S. Patent No. 8,163,201 to Agrawal et al. entitled "HIGH-INTENSITY, PERSISTENT PHOTOLUMINESCENT FORMULATIONS AND OBJECTS, AND METHODS FOR CREATING THE SAME", the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. For further information regarding phosphorescent structures with long persistence see U.S. Patent No. 6,953,536 to Yen et al. entitled "LONG PERSISTENT PHOSPHORS AND PERSISTENT ENERGY TRANSFER TECHNIQUE"; U.S. Patent No. 6,117,362 to Yen et al. entitled "LONG-PERSISTENT BLUE PHOSPHORS"; and U.S. Patent No. 8,952,341 to Kingsley et al. with the designation "LOW RARE EARTH MINERAL PHOTOLUMINESCENT COMPOSITIONS AND STRUCTURES FOR GENERATING LONG-PERSISTENT LUMINESCENCE", which are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety.

Regarding the 2 - 6 denotes the reference numeral 40 now generally a vehicle with a first fairing 44 , The first disguise 44 defines a vent 48 it. A second disguise 52 is near the first panel 44 arranged. A lighting assembly 56 is in the vent 48 arranged. The lighting assembly 56 includes a first plurality of light sources 60 , a second variety of light source 64 , a heat sink 68 and an optical element 72 , The heat sink 68 is with the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 thermally coupled. The photoluminescent structure 10 is near the first panel 44 arranged.

Now, in terms of 2 the vehicle 40 depicted as a car, however, the disclosure provided herein may be applied to vans, ATVs, pickups, saloons, or any other type of automobile. In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel is 44 as a front fender 76 however, it should be understood that the first trim is other body panels and trim panels of the vehicle 40 can act. For example, the first panel may be a hood 80 , a rear fender 84 , a bumper, a roof 92 and / or a trunk lid 96 be. As well as the first disguise 44 can the second panel 52 as a door 100 However, the bonnet can also be pictured 80 , the rear fender 84 , the bumper 88 , the roof 92 , the trunk lid 96 or any other on the vehicle 40 be arranged body paneling. As shown, the first panel defines 44 the vent 48 , The vent 48 is an opening that is designed to air between a wheel arch 108 and a page 112 of the vehicle 40 to let happen. According to various embodiments, the vent opening is 48 Designed to air through the wheel arch 108 suck in while the vehicle is moving, and this aside 112 of the vehicle 40 to lead. The vent 48 can completely through the first panel 44 or be defined by a combination of panels. Providing an airflow through the vent 48 can increase the aerodynamics of the vehicle 40 , Cooling a wheel 116 that is in the wheel arch 108 or cooling a braking system that is in the wheel arch 108 located wheel 116 coupled, be beneficial. Furthermore, as explained in more detail below, the air flow to the vent opening 48 further be adapted to the heat sink 68 the lighting assembly 56 to cool. The lighting assembly 56 in the vent 48 arranged, is designed to light on the door 100 , on the photoluminescent structure 10 and in the wheel arch 108 leave and an ambient lighting 120 on a floor next to the door 100 of the vehicle 40 to build. The ambient lighting 120 Can be designed to cover the ground under the vehicle 40 to illuminate, so if an occupant in the vehicle 40 gets in or out, puddles and / or other debris near the vehicle 40 illuminated and avoided. Furthermore, as explained below, the lighting assembly 56 Designed to be a variety of lights from the vent 48 leave. For example, the lighting assembly 56 the excitation emission 24 , visible light, colored light, white light and / or non-visible light. The excitation emission 24 coming from the vent 48 on the door 100 can radiate on one Adhesive image (eg the photoluminescent structure 10 ), which may cause the adhesive images to convert the converted light 26 submit. The adhesive image may take on a variety of layouts, including alphanumeric text, symbols, and / or images. For example, the adhesive image may be a make or a model of the vehicle 40 and / or a graphic (eg flames or a symbol of the manufacturer of the vehicle 40 ). Furthermore, the adhesive image can have a multiplicity of photoluminescent structures 10 which are each designed to by a different excitation emission 24 to be activated.

Well, in terms of the 3 and 4 the lighting assembly 56 on an inner surface 128 the first disguise 44 in the vent 48 arranged. The lighting assembly 56 is on the inner surface 128 the first disguise 44 arranged so that the optical element 72 Light in the wheel arch 108 as well as to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 can transfer. In the depicted embodiment, the lighting assembly is 56 on the inner surface 128 arranged such that the optical element 72 with the inner surface 128 in contact, the first and second light source 60 . 64 with the optical element 72 optically coupled and the heat sink 68 with the airflow through the vent 48 in contact. The first disguise 44 defines a cover flange 132 and a retaining flange 136 , The lighting assembly 56 is designed to be between the cover flange 132 and the retaining flange 136 to be held. In alternative arrangements, the lighting assembly 56 at the first disguise 44 by an adhesive and / or other mechanical fastening system (eg, screws, clamps, etc.). The cover flange 132 is in the vehicle direction behind the lighting assembly 56 arranged so that when you open the vent 48 and the first disguise 44 seen from a perspective in the vehicle direction to the rear, the lighting assembly 56 behind the cover flange 132 can be hidden. The cover flange 132 may be made of a polymeric material which may be translucent, transparent or translucent. In a specific example, the cover flange 132 include a vacuum metallized layer so that it is both reflective and transmissive. The cover flange 132 is designed to receive light from the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 is discharged into the optical element 72 let it pass so that it is in a vehicle direction to the rear of the vent 48 to the photoluminescent structure 10 , to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 and to the place of ambient lighting 120 is transmitted. The optical element 72 may include one or more optics located near the cover flange 132 are arranged to the light and the excitation emission 24 the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 to the desired location on or near the vehicle 40 to lead. For example, separate optics through the optical element 72 defined or close to it, to the ambient lighting 120 to form the general lighting of the page 112 of the vehicle 40 to form and / or to light the adhesive image. Furthermore, optics can be formed to the door 100 to illuminate while in an open position. The optical element 72 extends over the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 and, as shown, may be further back of the vehicle than the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 extend. In the illustrated embodiment, the optical element 72 a light emission to the wheelhouse 108 as well as to the inner surface 128 enable. For example, the retaining flange 136 in the illustrated design over only a portion of the optical element 72 extend. Accordingly, light from the optical element 72 to the inner surface 128 be delivered in areas that are not covered by the retaining flange 136 are covered. The heat sink 68 is on the opposite side of the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 from the optical element 72 arranged out. The heat sink 68 is in thermal communication with the through the vent 48 from the wheelhouse 108 to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 flowing airflow. By a heat coupling of the heat sink 68 with the through the vent 48 flowing air can heat, passing through the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 is generated and through the heat sink 68 is transferred to the air, whereby a stronger light generation from the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 is allowed while the vehicle is moving 40 in motion.

Well in terms of the 4 and 5 the light-generating assembly 56 the heat sink 68 , a circuit board 140 , the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 and the optical element 72 , According to various embodiments, the printed circuit board 140 between the heat sink 68 and the optical element 72 arranged. Such a design can protect the circuit board 140 against environmental exposure and hazards (eg dirt, water, dirt, etc.). The heat sink 68 may be made of a material that is capable of high heat conduction and has a high heat capacity. For example, the heat sink 68 be formed of a metal and / or polymer material having a high heat capacity. According to some embodiments, the heat sink 68 further define one or more ribs or other features adapted to the surface of the heat sink 68 to increase the airflow through the vent opening 48 in contact. An enlarged surface of the heat sink 68 with the air flow can provide increased heat conduction to the air.

The first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 are on the circuit board 140 arranged and electrically connected. The first and / or second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 may be configured to emit blue light, white light, colored light, invisible (eg, ultraviolet and / or infrared) light, or a mixture thereof. According to one embodiment, the first plurality of light sources may be designed as laterally emitting light sources. The laterally emitting light sources of the first plurality of light sources 60 are designed to project light down a length of the optical element 72 (For example, generally down over a length of the vehicle 40 ). The laterally emitting light sources of the first plurality of light sources 60 may be arranged in an alternating manner or in a different pattern or in a random orientation such that light in each direction (eg to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 or to the wheelhouse 108 ) along the optical element 72 is delivered. For light sources of the first plurality of light sources 60 that are designed to light aside 112 of the vehicle 40 For example, a portion of the light sources may be configured to control the excitation emission 24 while another portion may be configured to emit visible light. The use of a first section, the excitation emission 24 emits, and a second section that emits visible light, it can allow light coming from the vent 48 to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 both the adhesive image (eg, the photoluminescent structure 10 ), while at the same time ambient lighting to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 is provided, as explained in more detail below. The second variety of light sources 64 may include upper light emitting diodes, which are adapted to light in the optical element 72 leave. By the design of the second plurality of light sources 64 with emission from above, light is transmitted to the optical element 72 provided to the wheel arch 108 , to the inner surface 128 and / or to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 can be delivered.

The optical element 72 is with both the first and the second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 optically coupled. The optical element 72 can on the circuit board 140 and the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 to be splashed. The optical element 72 may be translucent, transparent and / or translucent material designed to spread light. The optical element 72 can be made of a polymer material, such as. As silicone, poly (methyl methacrylate), polyethylene, polypropylene and / or other transparent polymers may be formed. The optical element 72 may be further configured to serve as an additional heat sink to pass through the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 to absorb generated heat. In such an embodiment, the optical element 72 include one or more metals, which are designed to the heat capacity and / or heat conduction properties of the optical element 72 to increase. The optical element 72 can on the circuit board 140 be encapsulated such that the first and second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 within the optical element 72 are located.

Now, in terms of 6 a block diagram of the vehicle 40 shown in which the lighting assembly 56 implemented. The vehicle 40 includes a controller 150 in communication with the lighting assembly 56 , The control 150 can a memory 154 with instructions contained therein, by a processor 158 the controller 150 be executed. The control 150 can supply electrical power to the lighting assembly 56 through a power source 162 who are aboard the vehicle 40 is deploy. The memory 154 may include a variety of routines designed to accommodate the lighting assembly 56 to control, and by the control 150 can be executed. In a first example, the memory 154 Instructions are included to vary which light sources of the first plurality of light sources 60 be turned on to a desired effect of the photoluminescent structure 10 to achieve. For example, different light sources of the first plurality of light sources 60 based on the nature of the submitted excitation emission 24 be turned on, which thereby may lead to different sections of the photoluminescent structure 10 be activated and the converted light 26 submit. Such an effect may be the photoluminescent structure 10 to give the appearance of movements and / or color changes according to the order in which the light sources through the control 150 be turned on. In a second example, the memory 154 Include instructions for specific lighting patterns based on recognized vehicle conditions (eg, welcome, farewell and movement, standstill). For example, a portion or the entirety of the first and / or second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 be turned on so that a desired color or lighting pattern in the wheel arch 108 and / or along the side 112 of the vehicle 40 is achieved. For example, during a movement, the lighting assembly 56 be designed to the side 112 of the vehicle 40 to illuminate (eg in amber light) to increase visibility increase if a day / night sensor of the vehicle 40 a low lighting near the vehicle 40 recognizes. In another example, if the vehicle 40 stands, the lighting assembly 56 the wheel arch 108 and / or the page 112 of the vehicle 40 in a desired ambient lighting in both welcome and farewell events while the driver of the vehicle 40 approaching or leaving the car (eg as detected by the presence of a key fob). In a third example, the lighting assembly 56 be adapted to certain light sources (eg, a portion of the light sources of the first and / or second plurality of light sources 60 . 64 ) based on optics on the optical element 72 to turn on that particular section of the page 112 of the vehicle 40 can be lit, and / or the ambient lighting 120 near the vehicle 40 to create. In a fourth example, the controller 150 Data from a humidity or rain sensor of the vehicle 40 use it to determine if the ambient lighting 120 should be turned on.

The use of the present disclosure can offer a variety of advantages. First, the use of one embodiment enables the heat sink 68 made of a thermally conductive polymer, that of the lighting assembly 56 generated heat in through the vent 48 flowing air is discharged. When operating light emitting diodes heat is generated and can decrease the light generation of the LEDs. By dissipating the heat from the lighting assembly 56 into the air of the vent 48 can increase the generation of light from the lighting assembly 56 be achieved while the vehicle 40 is in operation. Furthermore, polymer examples of the heat sinks 68 an increased robustness of the lighting assembly 56 allow for dirt and environmental exposure. Second, by providing illumination in a vehicle direction to the rear of the vent 48 through the lighting assembly 56 the safety and aesthetics of the vehicle 40 improve. For example, by lighting the page 112 of the vehicle 40 both the visibility in low light conditions and the aesthetic appearance of the vehicle 40 improve. Furthermore, by generating the ambient lighting 120 on the ground near the vehicle 40 increased safety for the users of the vehicle 40 Can be achieved by puddles and / or dirt near the vehicle 40 be highlighted. Third, the use of the cover flange allows 132 that the optical element 72 is hidden from view, thereby increasing the aesthetics of the vehicle 40 can improve. Fourth, by utilizing the disclosed lighting assembly 56 a variety of aesthetic lighting effects can be achieved without the lighting assembly 56 at the door 100 to dispose of (ie, which may be subject to a variety of slot requirements).

The following disclosure describes a lighting system for a vehicle that is configured to illuminate a portion of the vehicle as well as an area under or behind a vehicle. In some embodiments, a light source may be used to illuminate both the area under the vehicle and the vehicle. The light source may be configured to emit light at a first wavelength or a primary emission to excite a photoluminescent structure. The photoluminescent structure may be disposed on a body feature of the vehicle and configured to convert the first wavelength of the light or the primary emission into a second wavelength or secondary emission. The first wavelength of the light may correspond to a first light color and the second wavelength may correspond to a second light color different from the first color. While the various embodiments of the lighting system described herein relate to specific structures that are illustrated with respect to at least one motor vehicle, it will be understood that the vehicle lighting system may be used in a variety of applications.

In the description and definition of the present teachings, it should be understood that the terms "substantially" and "approximately" are used herein to represent the degree of uncertainty inherent in any quantitative comparison, value, measurement, or other indication. The terms "substantially" and "approximately" are also used herein to reflect the degree to which a quantitative indication may differ from a given reference, without resulting in a change in the basic function of the subject matter in question.

It should be understood that variations and modifications may be made to the above structure without departing from the concepts of the present invention, and it is further understood that such concepts are intended to be covered by the following claims, as long as these claims are met do not expressly state otherwise.

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

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• US 8952341 [0031]

Claims (20)

 Vehicle comprising: a first panel defining a vent opening; a second fairing disposed near the first fairing; a lighting assembly located near the vent opening, full: a first and a second plurality of light sources; a heat sink heat-coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources; and an optical element optically coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources; and a photoluminescent structure disposed on the second panel. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the optical element is configured to provide ambient lighting in the vicinity of the second trim. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein at least one of the first and second plurality of light sources is configured to emit an excitation emission configured to excite the photoluminescent structure to emit light. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first plurality of light sources comprises side-emitting light sources. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the first body panel is vacuum metallized in the vicinity of the optical element. The vehicle of claim 1, wherein the heat sink is in thermal communication with air in the vent. The vehicle of claim 6, wherein the heat sink comprises a polymeric material.  Vehicle comprising: a first body panel defining a vent opening; a second panel disposed near the vent opening; a lighting assembly disposed in the vent opening, full: a first plurality and a second plurality of light sources; and an optical element optically coupled to the first and second plurality of light sources; and a photoluminescent structure disposed on the second panel. The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the vent opening is configured to allow airflow through the first body panel.  The vehicle of claim 9, wherein the lighting assembly further comprises a polymer heat sink.  The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the polymer heat sink is in thermal communication with the airflow through the first body panel.  The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the first body trim is vacuum metallized in the vicinity of the optical element.  The vehicle of claim 8, wherein the optical element is configured to emit an excitation emission of at least one of the first and second plurality of light sources onto the photoluminescent structure.  The vehicle of claim 13, wherein the photoluminescent structure emits light in response to the excitation emission.  Vehicle comprising: a fender panel defining a vent and a wheel well; a lighting assembly disposed in the vent opening,  full: a plurality of light sources; and an optical element optically coupled to the plurality of light sources; and a photoluminescent structure disposed proximate the vent, wherein the optical element is configured to emit light from the plurality of light sources to the wheel well and to the photoluminescent structure.  The vehicle of claim 15, wherein the photoluminescent structure is configured to emit light from the optical element in response to received light.  The vehicle of claim 16, wherein the optical element is further configured to emit the light from the plurality of light sources as ambient lighting in the vicinity of the vehicle.  The vehicle of claim 17, wherein the lighting assembly further comprises a heat sink in thermal communication with air in the vent opening.  The vehicle of claim 18, wherein the heat sink comprises a polymeric material. The vehicle of claim 19, wherein the plurality of light sources comprises at least one laterally emitting light source.

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